The radio ad is tied to Veterans Day, and might be aimed at undercutting Daines's most likely opponent's strongest credential. Montana Lt. Gov. John Walsh (D) is a former general and has touted his military experience in the early days of his campaign.

"Our veterans made enormous sacrifices to protect our country and defend our freedoms. We can never repay that debt. But we can honor their sacrifice," Daines says in the ad.

"That's why I’m working across the aisle to protect our veterans’ hard-earned benefits and ensure that we are meeting their healthcare needs. Our Veterans medical centers too often fall short, and that is simply unacceptable. We must do more to help our younger veterans transition into the workforce after their service is complete. They have important skills, but too often go without work."

Montana has one of the largest military populations of any state, proportionally.